Sterling Communications transformed San Jose Water’s image, upgrading the 158-year-old Silicon Valley utility criticized for rate increases into a recognized high-tech innovator in the water industry — and an empathetic community leader in Silicon Valley.
By improving transparency and proactively engaging with customers and the media, Sterling helped balance coverage and highlight the company’s technological sophistication and sustainability initiatives.
Sterling secured opportunities for San Jose Water’s experts to contribute to publications such as VentureBeat and San Jose Mercury News and appear on industry podcasts, reinforcing its reputation as an innovator. Coverage of sensitive topics like rate increases and drought now reflects a more nuanced and positive narrative, demonstrating San Jose Water’s commitment to the community and environmental stewardship.